Ground Breaking Project To Show Trail Runners The Way

TrailFest and Harvey Maps have launched a new project that aims to work directly with running enthusiasts to create a series of maps optimised to suit the needs of the trail runner. The ‘Maps For Trailrunners Project’ is breaking new ground in its approach to mapping designing maps that cater specifically for trail runners by recruiting a team of runners of varying abilities to test current maps and mapping over mixed terrain.

Over a number of months the team will identify the elements of a map needed by a trail runners, which will form the basis from which the new maps will be created. With the continued rise in people trail running in the countryside, the new maps will be the most Trail runner-friendly maps on the UK market.

Currently, the majority of off-the-shelf maps are aimed at walkers, but as runners move over the terrain at a quicker pace, they require maps that are simpler to interpret while on the move. The new maps will continue to contain all of the information required for efficient route selection making them just as safe as current maps

TrailFest will be recruiting a team of 10 so-called ‘Map Makers’ to be part of the project and it is expected that the first prototype will be tested in early 2018. The project can be followed on social media with the hashtag #MapsForTrailrunners.

Ryan Scott, co-founder of TrailFest, said “This is a really exciting and innovative project to be involved with. Runners often have two choices when it comes to mapping: your classic paper-based map or a watch-based map. Personally, I’ve never enjoyed either. Conventional maps are too big and heavy for travelling fast and light and a watch-based map restricts the information I can access quickly.”

Runners interested in the Maps For Trailrunners Project can apply to join via the TrailFest website.